The MNRI® Oral-Facial Reflex Integration Program focuses on improving oral-facial reflexes by addressing their dynamics and underlying neurological functions. It is informed by research and clinical work with individuals facing developmental challenges such as cerebral palsy, genetic disorders, autism spectrum disorder, ADD/ADHD, and communication or feeding delays. This program builds on the work of renowned neurophysiologists like Pavlov, Sechenov, Luria, and Bernstein, recognizing that facial reflexes are influenced by the central nervous system, including the brain hemispheres, brainstem, cranial nerves, and peripheral nervous system.

Integrated oral-facial reflexes support the development of speech, feeding, and postural control, while non-integrated reflexes can inhibit these functions, leading to delays in motor control and coordination. MNRI® techniques stimulate and reorganize neural pathways, promoting improvements in speech sound production, feeding skills, and overall motor development.

Visual and Auditory Systems

The visual and auditory systems work individually and together with other sensory systems to guide the body’s internal and external actions.

• Auditory System: Processes sounds and vibrations, distinguishing characteristics like volume, pitch, and rhythm. Auditory reflexes help filter out unnecessary sounds during focus or expand sound awareness for general alertness.

• Visual System: Detects shape, color, brightness, and movement, helping to recognize people and objects, assess location, and stay aware of visual cues essential for safety and function. Visual reflexes filter distractions during visual focus while remaining alert to unexpected stimuli.

These systems also work together to coordinate "seeing-hearing" information and prioritize sensory input for the central nervous system to guide actions. However, due to trauma, developmental delays, or reflex dysfunction, the visual and auditory systems can become hypersensitive (over-reactive) or hyposensitive (under-reactive), leading to sensory challenges.

Types of Sensory Reactions

• Hyper-Sensitive Reactions

  • Auditory: Over-reaction to loud noises or certain frequencies, causing discomfort or avoidance (e.g., covering ears).

  • Visual: Over-sensitivity to bright lights, vivid colors, or complex visuals, leading to distraction or distress.

• Hypo-Sensitive Reactions

  • Auditory: Under-reactivity to sounds, causing missed cues or lack of response to important auditory information.

  • Visual: Under-reactivity to visual input, such as staring directly at bright lights or failing to notice movement that could indicate danger.

When these sensory systems are not properly engaged and integrated, individuals may display emotional or behavioral dysregulation.

MNRI® Visual and Auditory Reflex Integration Program

The MNRI® Visual and Auditory Integration Program helps engage and integrate the visual and auditory systems to improve reflex function, emotional regulation, and learning. This program addresses sensory processing challenges by enhancing the brain-body connection, leading to better behavior and cognitive performance.

Parents and professionals working with children facing sensory challenges are encouraged to attend the MNRI® Visual and Auditory Integration Course. This course provides an in-depth understanding of the physiology and development of the visual and auditory systems, how sensory challenges affect reflex integration, and practical exercises for improving sensory and motor function.

Additionally, the MNRI® Tactile Integration Program focuses on the role of the tactile system in motor reflex integration, emphasizing how over- or under-sensitive touch receptors can affect reflex development. A well-integrated tactile system provides the foundation for coordinated movement, emotional regulation, and overall sensory-motor development.